State hires consultant to assess prison system
Judson McCranie/ Creative Commons via Georgia Recorder
By Dave Williams
Capitol Beat News Service
ATLANTA — The state is launching an in-depth assessment of Georgia’s prison system to identify steps needed to improve safety, Gov. Brian Kemp announced.
The governor’s announcement came one day after a food-service employee was shot and killed at Smith State Prison in Glennville. An investigation discovered that a personal relationship existed between the Aramark worker and inmate Jaydrekus Hart, and a suicide note was found that appeared to have been left by Hart, according to a statement issued by the state Department of Corrections.
More than 3,500 assaults between inmates occurred in state prisons between 2021 and last year, according to state prison data, while 98 inmates were killed during that time.
“Keeping Georgians safe continues to be my top priority,” Kemp said Monday. “By ensuring our correctional facilities have the funding, technology, infrastructure, and operations to fulfill their mission, this comprehensive assessment is the next step in achieving a safer, stronger Georgia for all who call the Peach State home.”
The corrections department will partner with Chicago-based Guidehouse Inc., a consulting firm with expertise in conducting assessments of prison system in all 50 states, to conduct the assessment of Georgia prisons.
During the next year, Guidehouse will visit multiple state prisons while working with corrections personnel to develop an assessment using evidence-based research. The company then will develop and begin to implement actionable recommendations.
“When Gov. Kemp appointed me, he gave me the clear mandate to keep Georgians safe by improving our corrections system,” Commissioner of Corrections Tyrone Oliver said. “We’ve done just that by improving retention levels, removing approximately $7 million worth of contraband from our prisons, shutting down the largest contraband trafficking ring in the country, and more.
“But we know we have a lot more room to grow, which is why I’m thankful Guidehouse will provide a thorough review of our facilities and policies that will guide the next phase of … improvements.”
Author
Related Articles
Congress weighs packaging bill with implications for Albany manufacturers
A congressional hearing this week on proposed national packaging-labeling standards could have implications for several of Southwest Georgia’s largest manufacturers, many of which produce or package products shipped across state lines.
Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, GBI investigate inmate death
“The sheriff’s office will conduct an administrative investigation to determine if the staff response was appropriate. We have requested that the GBI conduct an investigation.”
Residents’ safety concerns defeat request to privatize Plantation Road
The Terrell County Board of Commissioners rejected a request July 7 to remove Plantation Road from the county road system after nearby residents warned that closing the roadway could leave them without emergency access when adjoining roads flood.
